Thai Lion Air eyes new route to boost Nakhon Phanom tourism
Thai Lion Air is contemplating expanding its flight operations to Nakhon Phanom, in line with the Thai government’s strategy to boost tourism in lesser-known cities. This move is part of an initiative to transform secondary tourism cities into bustling hubs.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri has tasked the Department of Airports (DoA) with exploring avenues to increase flight frequency to these under-visited areas. According to her, this effort is part of the Transport for Thailand’s Opportunities policy, which focuses on leveraging travel and transport to foster the nation’s economic and social progress.
“The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has shown a readiness to ease regulations, making it simpler for airlines to serve secondary cities.”
Manaporn added that Thai Lion Air, keen on launching a new route to Nakhon Phanom, might benefit from reduced bureaucratic hurdles. The airline has confirmed its capability to operate flights to the northeastern province and is currently evaluating the logistics with local authorities.
In support of this initiative, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (AEROTHAI) has pledged to back domestic flight routes by offering a 25% discount on service fees. Additionally, AEROTHAI is prepared to establish short-haul routes connecting Laos, Vietnam, and Nakhon Phanom, should airlines wish to introduce new international flights.
At present, the Bangkok to Nakhon Phanom route is solely serviced by Thai AirAsia, with three flights daily. Due to limited choices, many travellers fly to Sakon Nakhon, a nearby province, and continue their journey by land to Nakhon Phanom as a cost-saving measure. One-way ticket prices can soar up to 5,500 baht.
Thai Lion Air, poised to expand its fleet with four new aircraft by year-end and an additional fourteen by 2025, views Nakhon Phanom as a promising tourist locale. This expansion is expected to provide more options for travellers and potentially reduce travel costs, making it a win-win for the airline and passengers, said Manaporn.
“With our fleet expansion, we are excited about the prospects of serving Nakhon Phanom and enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.”
This development highlights the ongoing efforts within the aviation sector to not only enhance connectivity within Thailand but also to promote regional tourism and economic growth, reported Bangkok Post.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is Thai Lion Air interested in expanding to Nakhon Phanom?
The expansion aligns with the strategy to develop secondary cities, boost tourism, and capitalise on reduced regulatory hurdles.
How could increased flight frequency impact Nakhon Phanom’s local economy?
More flights could spur tourism, increase local business opportunities, and stimulate economic growth in Nakhon Phanom.
What if more airlines start serving secondary cities like Nakhon Phanom?
This could lead to competitive pricing, improved travel accessibility, and a surge in visitor numbers, benefiting local industries.
How might Aerothai’s fee reductions influence flight routes?
Fee reductions can lower operational costs for airlines, encouraging them to establish more domestic and international routes.
What could be the long-term effects of easing aviation regulations in Thailand?
It could enhance connectivity, promote tourism, attract investments, and potentially transform lesser-known cities into major travel hubs.
